Christmas Ornament Seen 'Round The World

The Pioneer Woman Statue ornament sent by students to Stephanie is displayed on her family's tree in Germany!

History of the Pioneer Woman Statue

The vision of a statue honoring the pioneer women of this country belonged to E.W. Marland, Ponca City resident, oilman, philanthropist, U.S. Congressman, and 10th governor of the state of Oklahoma. In 1926, Marland invited 17 leading sculptors to submit designs in the form of small models. Four months later, the models were exhibited across the nation and 750,000 persons cast votes for their preference. Bryant Baker’s vision of the pioneer woman was the clear winner. Located across the street from the museum, the Pioneer Woman is a heroic bronze statue of a young, sun bonneted pioneer mother, leading her son by the hand, striding confidently, head held high—a woman of sturdy beauty and dignity, whose eyes are fixed on the far southwestern horizon. (source: http://www.pioneerwomanmuseum.com/thestatue.htm)
 
About the Museum
 
The Pioneer Woman Museum showcases the history of women in Oklahoma and their influence on the development of the state and nation and preserves the legacy of women from all races, creeds, and nationalities who have made significant contributions to the history of Oklahoma. The world-famous 30 ft. tall bronze statue commemorating the heroic character of the women who braved dangers and hardships to settle in Oklahoma is featured. (source: http://www.pioneerwomanmuseum.com/themuseum.htm)

Students Skype with Stephanie, Part II

Students in both Ms. Blair's and Ms. Bright's classrooms once again had the opportunity to Skype with Stephanie this week. She is so awesome to volunteer her time, and her interaction with our students is a big motivator!


Students asked Stephanie about her job, how she came to be a tour guide, and her impressions of her career. She shared with them about her plans to open her own tour company based in Valencia, Spain, and how she is preparing for her move. She will continue to work for Adventures By Disney on the Germany tours, as well. Students also had time to ask about her recent travels to India and China, and other places she had visited previously. What a great way for students to learn about the world and practice speaking and listening skills!

Students Send Stephanie a Christmas Package

Students in both Ms. Bright's and Ms. Blair's classrooms recently received postcards and Christmas cards from Stephanie as she traveled through India and China. In return, the students completed letters for Stephanie telling her about their personal Christmas traditions or some of their favorite places in our town. We hope Stephanie enjoys her package and we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Post Fellowship Meeting

Tomorrow, we will be meeting with other Fund For Teachers Fellows to discuss our summer experiences and our classroom plans. We are excited to share what we learned on our journey and how we plan to use it! For those teacher friends who follow our blog, the 2012 FFT Fellowship Application is now available. It is due January 27, 2012. To see if you qualify, visit http://www.fundforteachers.org/apply.php. Individual teachers may request up to $5000, and teams of two or more may request up to $10000.

History of Heidelberg Castle

This was the first castle we visited during our fellowship. 

Ludwig II and Neuschwanstein Castle

Diana found this great video history of Neuschwanstein.  This nicely sums up much of what we learned about Ludwig II and this castle from our guides.

Reunion with Stephanie!

A digital reunion, that is!

Friday was an exciting day in both classrooms as we both had the opportunity to chat with Stephanie from Germany via Skype and got to introduce her to some of our students. 

Stephanie visited with Ms. Bright's 4th hour class first.  Stephanie shared with the students about her childhood in Germany, how German schools differ from US schools, and the history behind some German traditions, such as Oktoberfest. In a reflective writing after the call, Robert stated, "One thing I learned about Germany is that there are 16 states there, and Oktoberfest is a celebration for a marriage [of a Bavarian king]." Johnny stated, "I learned that she is just like us."  Ms. Bright's favorite part was when Stephanie said reading was very important to her because reading has the power to take you on any journey you choose - what a powerful statement for the students to hear!  The students enjoyed the call and hope to visit with Stephanie again soon!

Later that afternoon, Stephanie met the Lords and Ladies of Ms. Blair's Fairytale Kingdom.  The 3rd graders learned that there are 20,000 castles in Germany, what schools are like in Germany and France, and about how Stephanie grew up in East Germany.  They even learned some German words! Next week, they will do some nonfiction writing related to today's experience.

We both appreciate Stephanie for volunteering her time for this unique learning experience for our students!